Exploring the 10 Best Harare Attractions in Zimbabwe
Harare is the capital and largest city of Zimbabwe, located in the north-eastern part of the country. It’s a lively, vibrant city with plenty to offer visitors, from museums and art galleries to historical sites and cultural attractions. It’s also a great starting point for exploring other parts of Zimbabwe, with many national parks, game reserves and outdoor activities nearby. Whether you’re looking for an adventure or some relaxation, Harare has something for everyone. Here are the 10 top sights and activities to see and do in Harare.
1. Visit the National Museums and Monuments of Zimbabwe
The National Museums and Monuments of Zimbabwe are a great place to learn about the country’s culture and history. The museum complex includes several museums, including the Museum of Human Sciences, which explores the history of Zimbabwe from pre-colonial times to today; the Museum of Natural History, which showcases the country’s diverse flora and fauna; and the National Gallery, which has an impressive collection of contemporary art. There are also several monuments scattered throughout the complex, including several national heroes’ gravesites.
2. Explore Harare Botanical Gardens
Harare Botanical Gardens is a lush, green oasis in the heart of the city. With over 60 acres of flora and fauna, including rare species of plants and trees, it’s a great place to escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. The gardens also feature several ponds, rivers and streams, as well as several walking trails for visitors to explore.
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3. Tour the City Center
The city center of Harare is a bustling hub of commerce and culture. Here you’ll find some of the city’s most iconic landmarks, including the towering Zimbabwe International Trade Fair Centre, the majestic National Gallery of Zimbabwe, and the impressive National Heroes Acre monument. With its busy streets, vibrant markets and lively nightlife, the city center is a great place to explore during your time in Harare.
4. Go Shopping at Sam Levy’s Village
Sam Levy’s Village is one of the most popular shopping destinations in Harare. Here you’ll find a wide variety of stores, from upscale boutiques to budget outlets, as well as a large food court with a range of international cuisines. It’s also home to many bars and restaurants, making it a great spot to kick back and relax after a day of sightseeing.
5. Visit Mukuvisi Woodlands Nature Reserve
Mukuvisi Woodlands Nature Reserve is one of the most beautiful places in Harare. Situated in a sheltered valley, it encompasses over 200 acres of natural habitat where you can spot a variety of wildlife such as zebras, giraffes, elands and more. The reserve also contains several walking trails, allowing visitors to get up close to nature and explore this unique ecosystem.
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6. Take in the Views from Kopje Hill
Kopje Hill is one of the most popular viewpoints in Harare, offering stunning views over the city skyline. The hilltop is also home to some interesting historical sites, including an old fort dating back to the colonial era and several monuments dedicated to local heroes of Zimbabwe’s liberation struggle.
7. Visit the National Gallery of Zimbabwe
The National Gallery of Zimbabwe is one of Harare’s top attractions. Located in the heart of the city centre, it houses an impressive collection of contemporary African art as well as works from some of Zimbabwe’s best-known artists. The gallery also hosts regular exhibitions and events throughout the year, making it a great spot for art lovers.
8. Explore Hwange National Park
Hwange National Park is one of Zimbabwe’s most popular tourist destinations, located just outside of Harare. This world-renowned park is home to an array of wildlife such as elephants, lions, cheetahs and giraffes. Visitors can explore the park on guided game drives or take a guided walking safari to get up close to some of Africa’s most majestic animals.
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9. Sample Local Cuisine at Mbare Musika Market
Located in Mbare township, Mbare Musika Market is one of Harare’s most popular street markets. Here you can find everything from local produce and crafts to souvenirs and clothing. It’s also a great place to sample traditional Zimbabwean cuisine such as sadza (maize porridge), stewed vegetables and biltong (dried meat).
10. Take an Adrenaline-Fuelled Adventure
Harare is an adventure-lover’s paradise, with plenty of adrenaline-fuelled activities on offer such as white water rafting, mountain biking and rock climbing. There are also several national parks and game reserves nearby, perfect for game viewing safaris and wildlife spotting. Whether you’re looking for an extreme adventure or something a bit more relaxed, Harare has something for everyone.
Book an Adventure Tour in Harare
Harare is a vibrant city with plenty to offer visitors from all over the world – from art galleries and museums to national parks and outdoor activities. Whether you want to explore Zimbabwe’s culture and history or just relax in its lush gardens, there’s something for everyone in this buzzing capital city. With its rich history, unique culture and diverse attractions, there’s no shortage of things to see and do when visiting Harare – so get exploring!
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